Ridgecrest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ridgecrest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"I never knew this was here and grew up camping in California. Filming for the remake of Planet of the Apes happened here."
"Was a nice and clean campsite! Plenty of space to branch out on your own."
"Hey, it's free. Weekends are busy but weekdays are exceptionally peaceful."
"Camp right on the water and the price is right FREE. I live in Az now but when we go back we always hit the lake. "
"Access to the river is closed as of 26 January, still plenty of dispersed places down the road to camp."
"To swim in the lake this area connects to Stine Cove campground - via a very soft sandy road - which is also free, has a vault toilet, but is"
"Also, there is really only one way down to get to the campsites, at least to see what’s available."
TravelerThis is BLM land camping in an OHV area that we used for an overnight. For this purpose it was great. A paved road leads to endless dispersed camping options in a beautifully rugged canyon. There were a few OHVs but we arrived late on a weekday and OHV traffic stopped altogether in the evening. Wind was a problem and made sleeping hard. We camped in a 24’ travel trailer with a high clearance truck. While not necessary, the larger truck was nice to have on the dirt portions. There are sites that would be accessible by car as well just be more discerning. Verizon was at 1 bar the whole time.
Guidedispersed camping along keyesville rd. big open areas for group or big rig camping, lots of pullouts with fire rings. vault toilets and dumpsters at staging areas. this recreation area has lots of trash, easily could spend days picking litter. keyesville rd. has plenty of traffic though from 2200hrs til morning is fairly quiet. it’s a rec area, so with that in mind the weekends are getting busy. a lot of motocross, ohv and atv traffic from late thurs to sunday. other than that it is a wonderful free camping.
RangerCampground had some nice spots for dry camping. I planned to stay on BLM land off the road but this seemed part of the ghost town private property. It was late and I was confused..I need to go back and donate $5.
GuideWe love lake Isabella and just discovered this free camp spot right on the beach…
TravelerFirst time going to the desert to camp. After the abundance of rain it was surprisingly green. Several types of wildflowers in bloom right now. Truly got the desert camping experience here. Spring time was ideal, weather was pleasant and mild. The biggest downside to the whole trip was the wind. Best thing I could recommend is finding an area that creates a natural barrier to it. The gusts are strong enough to really blow your tent hard and jerk you awake. The winds starts around dinner time/dusk and really doesn't let up u til midnight. So if you are down to clown, this place is absolutely beautiful. Clear enough to see the stars and if you come with the full moon (or close to it) you can really navigate around by moonlight. There really is only one vault toilet. And makeshift fire ring dispersed around the area. All the cool/good spots to camp are pretty far away from the toilet. Additionally, bring your own TP. Pack in/out and be respectful as this is BLM land
ScoutDesignated as dispersed camping by the BLM, this place is incredible for a few night stay and has plenty of room for all.
GuideGreat hideaway with plenty of dispersed sites. I spent two days here and only seen a handful of vehicles drive through, mostly US Forest Service trucks. Pack in, pack out. No toilets, showers, or water so bring in everything you need. 14 days of free camping every 30 days. A great find to get away from it all.
GuideReally enjoyed staying at the Pinnacles over the weekend. Free BLM dispersed camping here, so bring everything you need and take everything with you when you leave.
The landscape is like no other. Felt like Skywalker or Spock was going to walk around a formation at any minute. Very cool vibes out there.
A bit breezy when we stayed in mid-April but nothing outrageous. Temps were warmer and we had our own shade.
Somebody commented it's the type of dust that sticks to everything and they were right.
If you have the option, air down your tires at the trailhead of the Trona dirt road. It makes the last 5 miles much more comfortable.
GuideHot and dry. Boondocking only. Lots of campsites.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ridgecrest, California, where vast landscapes and stunning night skies await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of locations perfect for those looking to escape into nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ridgecrest, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ridgecrest, CA is Trona Pinnacles with a 4.6-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ridgecrest, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Ridgecrest, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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